More than 1,470 pigs have died in Kiambu as African Swine Fever spreads across several Kenyan counties, raising understandable questions among farmers and consumers about pork safety.
The Department of Veterinary Services says more than 20 farms in Kiambu have been affected since mid-May.
Significant outbreaks have also been reported in Tharaka-Nithi, Busia, Embu, Kakamega, Homa Bay and Migori.
The first thing consumers should understand is that African Swine Fever is a disease of pigs, not people.
It is not considered a human disease. The danger is overwhelmingly to pigs and to the livelihoods of farmers who depend on them.
ASF is highly contagious among pigs and can cause extremely high mortality. There is no simple treatment for infected animals, making containment, biosecurity and movement controls particularly important.
The economic implications are substantial.
Kenya's pig sector contributes an estimated Sh19.5 billion, or roughly 5% of livestock output, according to government figures cited by Citizen Digital.
An uncontrolled outbreak could therefore destroy farmers' herds, disrupt supply chains and increase losses throughout the pork industry.
Consumers should continue obtaining meat from inspected and regulated sources rather than buying uninspected pork.
For farmers, the immediate priority is reporting suspected illness or sudden deaths and following veterinary guidance rather than moving potentially infected animals to other farms or markets.
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Category: Health
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